Male Bailed Over Church Vandalism

A male who was arrested by detectives investigating an attack on the interior of a Catholic church in Kilkeel, County Down, has been released on bail, police have said.

The attack saw crosses, statues, pews and windows damaged at the Our Lady of the Angels oratory on Greencastle Street.

Parish priest Father Michael Murray's car was parked nearby and was also damaged. It has been reported that the vehicle's windows were smashed with bricks.

However, police have said there was no sectarian motive behind the attack.

Speaking shortly after the male's arrest yesterday evening, SDLP MLA for South Down Seán Rogers said: "There were initial fears expressed that the vandalism might have been sectarian but now it is evident that this is not the case.

"I have spent considerable time with the family of the young man this evening. They are incredibly distressed by what has occurred and I am appealing for privacy for the family at this very difficult time for them so they can deal with this terrible situation.

"This attack on the church has obviously caused significant distress for Fr. Michael Murray and concern for local parishioners and I understand fully the impact that this upsetting incident will have had. However, I am hopeful that the matter can be brought to a conclusion quickly and effectively and dealt with in a calm way."

Sinn Féin MLA Caitríona Ruane said: "There has been widespread condemnation from all sections of the local community of this act of wanton vandalism carried out in the church last night. "Councillor Sean Doran and I have also raised the attack with the PSNI. The police are now of the view that the attack was not sectarian in character."

Councillor Doran said: "There have been expressions of support for the parishioners of Our Lady of the Angels from right across the local community in Kilkeel. While this act of vandalism has hurt many in the parish I welcome the solidarity shown by local people from all denominations."

(IT/MH)